Electronic postage scale system and method

ABSTRACT

In an improved postage scale system, soft-selection keys are used for selecting options including shipping service options provided by the system. The display on such a system is adjustable for comfortable viewing thereof. The system is capable of interfacing and communicating with other devices such as a printer, a remote computer, an optical scanner, an integrated circuit (IC) card, etc. Certain data and code for use in the system can be updated by downloading new data and code from IC cards to the system. A security measure is instituted such that, after an update of the data or code, a system user is required to enter a valid authorization number in order to enable the system. Such a measure is, in part, necessary for deterring unauthorized copying of software of the system onto another similar system.

This application is a division of U.S. patent application Ser. No.08/139,898, filed on Oct. 14, 1993.

The disclosure of this patent document includes a Microfiche Appendixwhich contains 54 microfiche and 5,227 frames.

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialwhich is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and TrademarkOffice patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrightrights whatsoever.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an electronic scale system and methodwhich is particularly suitable for mailing or shipping use.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In recent years, multifarious postage scales incorporating digitalcircuitry and microprocessors have been developed. These specializedpostage scales are typically equipped with means of weighing packagesincluding letters and parcels, and capable of combining the weight andthe shipping rate information stored therein to determine the postageand other charges for shipment of the packages.

Many of the electronic scales are also equipped with means of displayingthe weight of a package, along with the postage and other shippingcharges during the weighing process. For aesthetic reasons, the displayscreens of such scales are compact and relatively small. As such, theamount of information displayed on one such screen is extremely limited.

The shipping cost for a package to be delivered to a destination isdependent upon not only the weight of the package, but also theparticular carrier used, the destination zone, the class of shipment,and the selected service options. In the United States, carriers such asthe United States Postal Service (USPS), United Parcel Service (UPS) andFederal Express each have independent, different postage rates andcharges for different service options. For example, USPS has variousrates for first, second and third mailing classes, parcel post service,priority mail service, book rate service, etc. UPS levies extra chargesfor service options such as Collect on Delivery (COD), DeliveryConfirmation Response (DCR), Declared Value (DV) and the like.

Because of the existence of the many different carriers and theirassociated rates and charges, the amount of data to be stored in anelectronic scale is substantial, and normally requires a dedicatedmemory in the form of a programmable read-only memory (PROM). However,whenever there is a change in the postage rates, or other cost factors,such memory needs to be replaced by an updated memory. The replacementundesirably calls for the service of a technician to disassemble thescale to physically remove the existing memory inside the scale.

Because of the many different rates and service options involved, theoperating portion of an electronic postage scale normally includes manykeys, each of which corresponds to a rate or a service option. The sizeof the operating portion is accordingly large and the presentation ofthe keys is confusing. The large keyboard would intimidate unskilledoperators and leads to errors during a complicated operation. Attemptshave been made to reduce the number of keys to simplify the operation.One such attempt involves use of special keys such as shift and/orcontrol keys so that each key, coupled with the special keys,corresponds to two or more rates or service options. Nevertheless, suchuse of the special keys hardly reduces the complexity of the operation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention overcomes the prior art limitations by providing aplurality of soft selection keys having unfixed functions. These keysare used for selecting options including shipping service options, whichare displayed on a screen on the inventive system. Each displayed optionis associated with a different soft selection key, and is substantiallyaligned with the key associated therewith. One or more of the optionscan be selected by depressing the associated key or keys.

Thus, it is an object of the invention to provide a postage scale systemand method which is easy to operate and perform so as to minimizeconfusion or misinterpretation by a system user.

It is a general object of the invention to provide a postage scalesystem and method for weighing packages and accurately determining theirweight, the requisite postage and other shipping charges for variouscarriers.

Another object of the invention is to provide automatic display ofinformation including the package weight and the cost of shipment on ascreen which is easily adjustable for convenient viewing.

Still another object of the invention is to allow updating of thepostage rates and other shipping charges without necessarily replacingthe memory inside the scale system.

A further object of the invention is to allow a user to accurately trackthe shipping transactions, and to program the system to generatecustomized accounting records containing the shipping information.

Another object of the invention is to prevent or deter unauthorizedcopying of software provided for a postage scale system, and to easilyenable selected system options using an authorization number.

It is also an object of the invention to provide interface capabilitiesfor the system to communicate with other devices such as one or moreprinters, a postage meter, a remote computer, an optical scanner, anintegrated circuit card, etc.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

Further objects, features and advantages of the invention will becomeapparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunctionwith the accompanying figures showing a preferred embodiment of theinvention, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates an electronic postal scale system in accordance withthe invention;

FIG. 2 is a side cross section of a console in the system of FIG. 1having a first adjustable display arrangement in accordance with theinvention;

FIG. 3 is another side cross section of the console having the firstadjustable display arrangement;

FIG. 4 is a side cross section of a console in the system of FIG. 1having a second adjustable display arrangement in accordance with theinvention;

FIG. 5 illustrates a mating half of a display module used in the consoleof FIG. 4 in the second adjustable display arrangement;

FIG. 6 is a partial front cross section of the console having the secondadjustable display arrangement;

FIG. 7A is a top view of a portion of the console having the secondadjustable display arrangement;

FIG. 7B is a rear view of a portion of the console having the secondadjustable display arrangement;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating hardware of the console in thesystem of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a memory map of memory space provided in the console of FIG.8;

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an integrated circuit card which may beused with the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating a data downloading processperformed by the console of FIG. 8;

FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating an authorization verifying processperformed by the console of FIG. 8;

FIG. 13 illustrates a keyboard and display module used in the system ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 14 illustrates a particular arrangement with the system of FIG. 1for executing an exemplary transaction in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 15A is a flow chart illustrating an application process performedby the system of FIG. 1 to execute the exemplary transaction inaccordance with the invention;

FIG. 15B is a flow chart illustrating a subroutine invoked by theapplication process of FIG. 15A;

FIG. 16 illustrates a first screen displayed by the display module inexecuting the exemplary transaction, along with an array of functionkeys;

FIG. 17 illustrates a second screen displayed by the display module inexecuting the exemplary transaction;

FIG. 18 illustrates a third screen displayed by the display module inexecuting the exemplary transaction;

FIG. 19 illustrates a fourth screen displayed by the display module inexecuting the exemplary transaction;

FIG. 20 is a screen depiction corresponding to the fourth screen, alongwith the array of function keys;

FIG. 21 illustrates a fifth screen displayed by the display module inexecuting the exemplary transaction, along with the array of functionkeys;

FIG. 22 illustrates a screen having a message drop-down window which mayappear during the execution of the exemplary transaction, along with thearray of function keys;

FIG. 23 illustrates a sixth screen displayed by the display module inexecuting the exemplary transaction, along with the array of functionkeys;

FIG. 24 illustrates a screen having a window displaying differentaccount names which may be selected during the execution of theexemplary transaction;

FIG. 25 illustrates a first screen displayed by the display module inexecuting an access rates function provided by the console of FIG. 8;

FIG. 26 illustrates a second screen displayed by the display module inexecuting the access rates function;

FIG. 27 illustrates a third screen displayed by the display module inexecuting the access rates function;

FIG. 28 illustrates a fourth screen displayed by the display module inexecuting the access rates function;

FIG. 29 illustrates a fifth screen displayed by the display module inexecuting the access rates function;

FIG. 30 illustrates a sixth screen displayed by the display module inexecuting the access rates function;

FIG. 31 illustrates a seventh screen displayed by the display module inexecuting the access rates function;

FIG. 32 illustrates a variety of input devices capable of communicatingwith the system of FIG. 1; and

FIG. 33 illustrates a network arrangement wherein a remote computer iscapable of communicating with the system of FIG. 1.

Throughout the figures, the same reference numerals and characters,unless otherwise stated, are used to denote like features, elements,components or portions of the illustrated embodiment. Moreover, whilethe subject invention will now be described in detail with reference tothe figures, it is done so in connection with a preferred embodiment. Itis intended that changes and modifications can be made to the describedembodiment without departing from the true scope and spirit of thesubject invention as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates electronic scale system 10 embodying the principlesof the invention. System 10 may be used in a mailroom or shipping roomof a business establishment to accurately weigh and rate different kindsof packages including letters and parcels before their submission to theUSPS, UPS or other carriers for delivery. As shown in FIG. 1, system 10comprises scale 11 and console 13. Although in this particularembodiment scale 11 and console 13 are depicted as two individual units,it will be appreciated that a person skilled in the art may combine thetwo units into a single unit if it is so desired. Scale 11 is ofconventional design and further comprises platform 15 for placement ontop thereof outgoing package 8. As further described hereinbelow, system10 is adapted to determine the mailing or shipping cost for package 8.It is also adapted to print a manifest, label or tag relating to theshipping of the package, and includes internal memory for accounting forthe shipping of such packages.

Underneath platform 15 is spacer 17 for conducting the weight of package8 to load cell 18. The latter senses the package weight and outputs anelectrical signal representing same. In a standard way, this electricalsignal is fed to console 13 through RS-232 interface 19. Case 14provides mechanical interconnection of the various parts of scale 11. Inthis particular embodiment, scale 11 has a weighing capacity of 100 lbs.Like other scales generally, scale 11 includes overload stops (notshown) to prevent damage as a result of an overload condition.

Console 13 comprises display module 16, and keyboard 17 including amultiplicity of keys (not shown in FIG. 1). Frame 12 provides mechanicalinterconnection of the various parts of console 13. The functions andoperations of console 13 are further described hereinbelow. It sufficesto know for now that console 13 takes in the electrical signal fromscale 11 and, depending on what particular key or keys on keyboard 17are depressed, console 13 causes display module 16 to display, forexample, the weight information and the shipping cost of package 8. Inthis illustrative embodiment, the weight displayed is in an increment of0.1 oz. if the package weighs between 0 and 5 lbs., an increment of 0.2oz. if it weighs between 5 and 15 lbs., and an increment of 0.5 oz. ifit weighs between 15 and 100 lbs.

On prior art postal scales, displays are typically fixed andnon-adjustable. Such displays present problems when, for example, thereis insufficient light or when there is a glare present on the displayscreen due to overhead lights or sunlight. In addition, for those fixeddisplays which employ liquid crystal display (LCD) technology, theynormally afford an extremely limited viewing angular range, outsidewhich the display contrast deteriorates substantially. Since a usercannot adjust a fixed display to improve the lighting condition or toincrease the viewing range, the user under these unfavorable conditionstends to be inefficient and susceptible to eye strain. It is thereforedesirable to provide an adjustable display for use on a postal scale.

Two adjustable display arrangements embodying the principles of theinvention will now be described. FIG. 2 shows a cross section of console13 having adjustable display module 16 in accordance with a firstarrangement. Extending from and attached on one side of display module16 is cylindrical section 103 adaptable for mounting the module withinconsole 13 such that the module may be adjusted by the user. Cylindricalsection 103 is terminated with display adjuster 105 (shown shaded inFIG. 2) for adjusting the module. Adjuster 105 is serrated and at leastpartially round such that the user may rotate it with a finger, and itprotrudes from frame 12 to enable the user to access it easily. Part ofcylindrical section 103 rides on drag spring 107 which is a thin sheetof metal. Drag spring mount 108 provides support and holds drag spring107 onto frame 12 using screw 110. Drag spring 107 presses cylindricalsection 103 against frame 12 to hold module 16 at a desired adjustedposition. As adjuster 105 is rotated by the user, cylindrical section103, attached to module 16, responsively rolls on drag spring 107.

FIG. 3 is a cross section of console 13 viewed from the opposite side ofFIG. 2. Extending from and attached on this side of display module 16 isa second cylindrical section (not shown) similarly arranged tocylindrical section 103. That is, a second drag spring (not shown)similar to drag spring 107 presses this second cylindrical sectionagainst frame 12 to help maintain module 16 at the desired adjustedposition, and this second drag spring is similarly mounted onto frame 12using another screw. In any event, FIG. 3 shows display module 16 whichis rotatably fitted into cylindrical socket 111 provided by frame 12.With the first arrangement just described, the user can easily adjustmodule 16 from 10 degrees to 70 degrees off the horizontal forcomfortable viewing of screen 9.

Referring now to FIGS. 4, 5 and 6, FIG. 4 illustrates a cross section ofconsole 13 in accordance with a second adjustable display arrangement.Display module 16 is formed of mating halves, one of which is denoted 16a in FIG. 5. Each half has two semi-circular pockets to capture on twoopposite sides pivot blocks 109 a and 109 b, respectively. Each pivotblock has in its center an axial threaded hole such as the one denoted129 on pivot block 109 b. Frame 12 has attached on each side astationary block such as the one denoted 123 in FIG. 6. Each stationaryblock has a hole (not shown) in its center. When module 16 is set intosocket 120 within frame 12, the axial threaded holes of pivot blocks 109a and 109 b are aligned with the center holes of the respectivestationary blocks. As shown in FIG. 6, shoulder screw 124 goes throughstationary block 123 and is screwed into the axial threaded hole ofpivot block 109 a, thereby clamping pivot block 109 a to stationaryblock 123. The friction is thus created between pivot block 109 a andstationary block 123 to maintain display module 16 at a desired adjustedposition. Wave spring washer 125 is placed between blocks 109 a and 123to more reliably control the amount of friction. similarly, pivot block109 b is clamped by another shoulder screw to the stationary block onthe other side through another wave spring washer to further maintainmodule 16 at the desired adjusted position.

With the above arrangement, module 16 may be rotated forward until itcomes into contact with socket 120, or backward until leg 197, whichextends from the back of module 16, rests on frame 12, and may therebybe adjusted from 30 degrees to 60 degrees off the horizontal.

FIG. 7A shows a top view of a portion of console 13 having the secondadjustable display arrangement. As shown in FIG. 7A, grip 180 isprovided on top of display module 16 and above screen 9, such thatmodule 16 can be easily adjusted by pushing the module at grip 180 withfingers. Grip 180 is comprised of a raised serrated rib pattern,providing the user with the necessary grip and/or frictional contact toadjust module 16. FIG. 7B shows a rear view of a portion of console 13having the second adjustable display arrangement. As shown in FIG. 7B,to further facilitate the adjustment of module 16, recess 182 isprovided on the rear of the module and directly below grip 180 such thatthe user can insert fingers into the recess, and raise the module withthe fingers.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the electronic hardware of console 13.Central to the hardware is microprocessor 201 which, in this instance,may be a 80C188XL microprocessor manufactured and marketed by IntelCorporation. The 80C188XL is a 10 MHz, 16 bit embedded microprocessorand the object code associated therewith is compatible with the Intel8086/8088 instruction set. Integrated in the 80C188XL include a clockgenerator, three timers, a peripheral interrupt controller, a chipselect logic capability, a direct memory access (DMA) control unit, arefresh control unit, and a power save unit. For more technical detailson the specification and functionality of the 80C188XL, one may refer tothe data book entitled “Embedded Microcontrollers and Processors,” IntelCorporation, volume 2, 1993.

Extending from microprocessor 201 are address, data and control busesnumerically denoted 203. Connected to multi-bus 203 is displaycontroller 207, which places display pixel information sent bymicroprocessor 201 in display memory 205 for storage. The contents ofmemory 205 are subsequently used by display controller 207 to generatevideo signals for display module 16 to display information on screen 9.In this illustrative embodiment, display module 16 may comprise a 480×64dot matrix LCD module of the type DMF-612, manufactured and marketed byOptrex Corporation of Tokyo, Japan. The DMF-612 module includes adisplay screen, a set of LCD drivers which interface with a displaycontroller such as controller 207. The screen of the DMF-612 module maybe backlit by a standard cold cathode tube (CCT).

Controller 207 may illustratively be a HD61830B Dot Matrix LCD DisplayController IC, manufactured and marketed by Hitachi America Ltd. Fordetails on the specification and functionality of the HD61830B, one mayrefer to the “LCD Controller/Driver LSI Data Book,” Hitachi AmericaLtd., August, 1989. Controller 207 is set in a graphics mode in whicheach bit in display memory 205 corresponds to an on/off state of adifferent pixel on screen 9. Specifically, data bits in memory 205 arebitmapped to individual pixels on the display and each may assume eithera first or a second logic value. A data bit having a first logic value(e.g., 1) causes controller 207 to lighten the corresponding pixel;otherwise, the pixel remains darkened.

Keyboard 17 is electrically connected to microprocessor 201 throughkeyboard interface 230 of conventional design. Using standard software,microprocessor 201, through interface 230, performs such functions askey debouncing, periodic scanning of keyboard 17 for detecting anydepressed keys, and key code translation for the depressed key.

Interrupt controller 211 which is incorporated in microprocessor 201,and to which hardware interrupt leads extend from, inter alia, fouruniversal-asynchronous receiver-transmitters (UART's) 233 a through 233d. All of the UART's are configured to be serial ports. Specifically,UART 233 a is configured to be an RS-422 input/output (I/O) port. UART's233 b-233 d are each configured to be an RS-232 I/O port. Otherinterfaces in system 10 include parallel interfaces 235 a and 235 b,each of which is configured to be an 8-bit bidirectional PC compatibleprinter port.

As mentioned before, the electrical signal representing the weight valuegenerated in scale 11 is sent to console 13 through interface 19 of FIG.1. Interface 19 is connected to one of the RS-232 I/O ports of console13, namely, UART 233 b. With the aforementioned serial ports andparallel interfaces, console 13 is capable of interfacing withperipheral devices such as a conventional electronic postage meterhaving an RS-422 interface; a barcode scanner and a PC system eachhaving an RS-232 interface; and a printer having a PC compatibleparallel interface, etc.

Timer 240 within microprocessor 201 is used to generate a signal of aparticular frequency on its output to conventional speaker circuitry243, which includes an 8 ohm speaker (not shown). Driven by such asignal, speaker circuitry 243 produces a tone having that particularfrequency. In a conventional manner, timer 240 and speaker circuitry 243are programmed to produce tones of different frequencies and levels ofvolume. In this illustrative embodiment, the speaker's volume isprogrammable for off, low, medium and high levels.

Also connected to multi-bus 203 is integrated circuit (IC) cardconnector 261 having a slot receptive to an IC card, which is to bedescribed. The card connector has an interface comprising metalliccontacts for electrically connecting the IC card to the electronics ofconsole 13. The configuration of these metallic contacts complies withan interface standard promulgated by the Personal Computer Memory CardInterface Association (PCMCIA).

In addition, console 13 includes read-only-memory (ROM) 213 permanentlystoring a unique serial number pre-assigned to system 10. Console 13also includes memory section 250 comprising flash electrically erasableprogrammable read-only-memory (EEPROM) 250 a having a capacity of 128Kbytes, EPROM 250 b having a capacity of 32 Kbytes, a nonvolatile staticrandom-access-memory (SRAM) 250 c having a capacity of 128 Kbytes, andSRAM 250 d having a capacity of 128 Kbytes, all of which are ofconventional design. Flash EEPROM 250 a may illustratively be anAT29C010 memory manufactured and marketed by Atmel Corporation. Fortechnical details on the specification and functionality of theAT29C010, one may refer to “ATMEL CMOS Data Book,” Atmel Corporation,1991-1992.

The computer program listings of the software necessary for runningsystem 10 are provided herein in the Microfiche Appendix. Such softwareis in part stored in memory section 250. FIG. 9 illustrates a memory mapof the memory space provided by memories 250 a, 250 b, 250 c and 250 din memory section 250. As shown in FIG. 9, different modules can beidentified within the memory space. Specifically, boot module 301contains a program for initialization of system 10 after it is poweredup. Zip/zone module 305 contains data in the form of look-up tables forconverting a given zip code, with respect to the location of system 10,to the corresponding zone number in accordance with the USPS practiceand other carriers' practice. Configuration module 307 contains datapertaining to certain functions configurable by system users. Such dataincludes data about predefined account names, user programmable carrierrates, system settings, selected system options, etc. Basic Input/OutputSystem (BIOS) module 309 contains firmware responsible for basic machineoperation of system 10.

As shown in FIG. 9, zip/zone module 305, configuration module 307 andpart of BIOS module 309 are located in flash EEPROM 250 a. The remainingpart of BIOS module 309 and boot module 301 are located in EPROM 250 b.

The memory space provided by memory 250 c is used for storing accountinginformation files numerically denoted 351 and manifest information filesdenoted 353. When the system is in operation, the memory space providedby memory 250 d is utilized as work space.

In this particular illustrative embodiment, rate schedule data, anoperating system and an application program (hereinafter referred to asthe “carrier service program”) are provided to the user in an IC card.This application program when executed causes system 10 to performcertain tasks in accordance with the invention. The operating system isprovided for execution of the application program and is,illustratively, a multitasking operating system (SMX version 2.2)manufactured and marketed by Micro Digital Associates, Inc. The rateschedule data is in the form of look-up tables (or alternativelyformulae and functions) for computing the shipping cost of an outgoingpackage, given a particular carrier and class of service, and specialservices. FIG. 10 illustrates a block diagram of IC card 401 suitablefor the present application. IC card 401 is a rectangular printedcircuit board having address leads 415, data leads 417, control leads419, ground lead 421 and power lead 423. At one end, the individualleads are electrically connected to EPROM 403 and EPROM 405 and, at theother end, the leads are respectively terminated on edge A of card 401with gold plated connectors (not shown). In this instance, EPROM 403contains the operating system, the application program, and headerinformation specifying that the content includes application code, andthat the code is to be executed by microprocessor 201 off card 401.EPROM 405 contains the rate schedule data.

When card 401 is inserted into IC card connector 261, with edge A beingthe leading edge, the gold plated connectors make electrical connectionswith the metallic contacts within IC card connector 261 so that leads415, 417 and 419 are respectively connected electrically to the address,data, control buses of multi-bus 203 in console 13; lead 421 is properlygrounded with console 13; and lead 423 conducts power for card 401 fromconsole 13.

IC card 401 is inserted into IC card connector 261 of system 10 when itis powered down. On power up, after system 10 is initialized,microprocessor 201 reads the header information from card 401. Havingread the information, microprocessor 201 executes the program off ICcard 401 and operates system 10 in the prescribed manner. Microprocessor201 also accesses the rate schedule data in card 401 whenever such datais needed.

In a more preferred embodiment, memory section 250 in console 13 issupplemented with a flash EEPROM having a 1Mbyte capacity. The aboverate schedule data, operating system and carrier service program areaccommodated in and run off the flash EEPROM, as opposed to IC card 401.Such a flash EEPROM may be a 28F008SA memory manufactured and marketedby Intel Corporation. The 28F008SA may be sectored into sixteen 64-Kbyteblocks. Each block is capable of 100,000 program/erase cycles. Ittypically takes 3 sec. to erase a memory block and 6 μsec. to write abyte of data onto the memory. The 28F008SA includes data-write andblock-erase automation, thereby simplifying the software required toprogram/erase part of the memory and minimizing the risk of improperprogramming/erasing of same.

Based on the discussion heretofore, a person skilled in the art shouldbe readily able to add to console 13 the 1 Mbyte flash EEPROM as in themore preferred embodiment. The modification necessitated by such anaddition is minor and apparent to those skilled in the art.

It should be noted at this point that the discussion hereinafter isbased on the more preferred embodiment where, in particular, theapplication program and the operating system are now stored in anapplication module within the 1 Mbyte flash EEPROM, and the rateschedule data is stored in a rate module within same.

In a prior art postal scale, whenever there is a change in the postagerates, shipping charges, or other cost factors, the memory containingsuch information needs to be replaced by an updated memory. Thereplacement undesirably calls for the service of a technician todisassemble the scale to physically remove the existing memory insidethe scale.

In accordance with an aspect of the invention, the rate schedule data isstored in the rate module of the flash EEPROM. Whenever there is achange in the postage rates, shipping charges, or other cost factors,the data in that particular module will be overwritten with new data,rather than replaced as in the prior art. To this end, a user will beprovided with an IC card similar to IC card 401. However, this IC carddiffers from card 401 in that the former needs only one EPROM, say EPROM403, to contain the new rate schedule data, and header informationspecifying the nature of the data, the need of downloading the data tothe rate module, and the starting address of the rate module.

For downloading the new rate schedule data, card 401 (which includesEPROM 403 only) containing the new data is inserted into connector 261of system 10 when it is powered down as before. On power up, aftersystem 10 is initialized, instructed by routine 500 of FIG. 11,microprocessor 201 reads from EPROM 403 the header information, asindicated at step 501. Having read such information including thedestination address which is, in this instance, the starting address ofthe rate module, microprocessor 201 enables write of the module at thataddress, as indicated at step 507. At step 509, microprocessor 201 readsthe new data from EPROM 403 and writes the data onto the rate modulethrough the data bus, thereby accomplishing the data transfer.Microprocessor 201 then disables write of the rate module, as indicatedat step 511. As soon as the downloading of the data is complete, theuser removes card 401 from card connector 261. That is, card 401 is notrequired or involved in the normal operation of system 10. In fact, card401 can be returned to the card originator which may then reuse it fordownloading the new data to another system.

As mentioned before, the amount of rate schedule data residing in therate module is significant and is on the order of Mbytes. The above datatransfer from card 401 to the rate module normally takes substantialtime. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the datapreprogrammed in EPROM 403 is compressed pursuant to a standard datacompression algorithm. As a result, the number of data bytesrepresenting the rate schedule information in the compressed format isrelatively small, compared with the uncompressed format. Advantageously,it needs substantially less memory of EPROM 403 to store the compresseddata, thus saving the incremental hardware cost for a larger memory. Inaddition, it takes relatively short time to transfer the compressed datato console 13 where, before the received data is written onto the ratemodule, it is decompressed using an algorithm inverse to the abovecompression algorithm.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, IC card 401 may beused to contain new application code for updating the stored program inthe flash EEPROM. The stored program may be overwritten by transferringthe new code from card 401 to the application module where the programis stored.

In accordance with still another aspect of the invention, the user ofsystem 10 needs to enter a valid authorization number, which is uniqueto system 10, in order to enable the new application software, or othernew data or system options selected by the user. The authorizationnumber, which is generated outside system 10 and provided to the user,is 64 bits long and consists of a 32-bit electronic signature andanother 32-bit encrypted option segment. In order to generate theelectronic signature, a combination of (a) the serial number of system10, (b) the model number of system 10, (c) the version number of theapplication software, (d) the version number of the rate schedule data,(e) the version number of the zip/zone data, and (f) a 32-bit optionnumber whose bit pattern corresponds to a particular combination ofenabled and disabled system options, are first encrypted in accordancewith a first encryption algorithm. The signature is then derived fromthe encrypted version of the combination of numbers (a) through (f). Onthe other hand, the encrypted option segment is generated by encryptingonly the 32-bit option number in (f) in accordance with a secondencryption algorithm.

It suffices to know for now that after the user enters the authorizationnumber, its encrypted option segment is first decrypted to recover theunderlying option number. With the recovered option number, andadditional numbers, system 10 independently generates an electronicsignature. The generated signature is compared with the electronicsignature of the authorization number just entered. If the twosignatures match, the authorization number is declared valid; theauthorization number will then be stored in a first memory buffer andthe recovered option number will be stored in a second memory buffer inconfiguration module 307.

Alternatively, the authorization number and the recovered option numberare stored in the respective first and second buffers before validationof the authorization number. That is, the recovered option numberoverwrites the current option number in the second buffer irrespectiveof the outcome of the validation.

System 10 is pre-loaded with software necessary for running differentsystem options including printer options, a barcode scanner option, adifferential weighing option, a manifesting option, etc. Such options,which are initially disabled, may be selectively enabled by setting theappropriate bits of the 32-bit option number in (f) to the oppositevalue. Thus, for example, if a user wants to enable a printer optionwhich was not previously enabled, the user will be provided with aproper authorization number to enter onto system 10, causing the bit inthe option number in (f) corresponding to the printer option to be setto the opposite value to enable the option. The present scheme forenabling system options is much more convenient than a prior art scheme,where the user needs to order the necessary software to enable theoptions, wait for the software to arrive, and finally download it to thesystem.

As mentioned before, the 32-bit option number is stored in the secondmemory buffer in configuration module 307, and system 10 enables thesystem options according to the bit pattern of the option number storedtherein. Thus, in accordance with the above alternative technique wherethe recovered option number is placed in the second buffer beforevalidation of the authorization number, the system immediately enablesthe options according to the recovered option number as soon as it isplaced in that buffer. That is, the enablement of system options usingthe alternative technique is effected irrespective of the outcome of thevalidation. After the system options are enabled in the prescribedmanner, system 10 enters its normal mode of operation where it firstvalidates the authorization number.

In the normal mode of operation or each time when system 10 is poweredup, microprocessor 201 reads off (i) the serial number of system 10 fromROM 213, (ii) the model number of system 10 which is stored in BIOSmodule 309, (iii) the version number of the application software whichis stored in the application module, (iv) the version number of the rateschedule data which is stored in the rate module, (v) the version numberof the zip/zone data which is stored in module 305, and (vi) the optionnumber which is stored in configuration module 307. Microprocessor 201generates an electronic signature based on numbers (i) through (vi)using the aforementioned first encryption algorithm. The electronicsignature, thus generated, is compared with the electronic signaturestored in configuration module 307. If there is no mismatch, system 10becomes operational. Otherwise if there is any mismatch, system 10 wouldprompt for a new authorization number.

To this end, the new data or new application code for updating system 10contains therewithin its own new version number. Thus, in the previousexample where the user is provided with IC card 401 to update the rateschedule data, EPROM 403 contains not only the new data and the headerinformation, but also a new version number within the new data. This newdata including the new version number is downloaded from card 401 to therate module on power up of system 10 in a manner described before. Afterthe data transfer is complete, system 10 is then turned off and the cardis removed. Upon subsequent power up of system 10, because of the factthat the rate schedule data has been updated and the rate module nowcontains the new version number, system 10 prompts the user for anauthorization number on screen 9 as discussed before. In response, theuser needs to enter on keyboard 17 the necessary authorization numberwhich is derived partly on the new version number. System 10 is equippedwith routine 700 of FIG. 12 for verifying the number entry. Instructedby routine 700, microprocessor 201 reads from keyboard interface 230 theauthorization number just entered, as indicated at step 701. Routine 700then proceeds to step 703 where microprocessor 201 causes the decryptionof the encrypted option segment of the authorization number to recoverthe underlying option number. Such decryption is accomplished by using adecryption algorithm inverse to the second enryption algorithm. At step705, microprocessor 201 reads off the above numbers (i) through (v),with number (iv) being the new version number of the rate schedule data.Using the recovered option number, and numbers (i) through (v) justread, microprocessor 201 at step 707 generates an electronic signatureusing the first encryption algorithm. The electronic signature, thusgenerated, is compared by microprocessor 201 at step 708 with theelectronic signature in the authorization number entered by the user.The authorization number is validated at step 709 if microprocessor 201finds that the two signatures match. Otherwise, a message such as“Invalid Authorization Number” is displayed at step 711 on screen 9.Only when the user's authorization number is validated, system 10becomes operational, as indicated at step 713.

An alternative validation technique involving use of a differentlyformatted authorization number will now be described. In accordance withthis alternative technique, the authorization number is generated byencrypting the above numbers (a) through (f) using a standard encryptionalgorithm. After the user enters such an authorization number, system 10decrypts the entered number using a decryption algorithm inverse to thestandard encryption algorithm, and recovers the underlying numbers (a)through (f). System 10 then retrieves therewithin the above numbers (i)through (v) in the manner described before, and compares them with thecorresponding, recovered numbers (a) through (e). The authorizationnumber is validated if the two sets of numbers match.

The authorization number verification requirement is desirable in thatit helps deter unauthorized copying of software of system 10 onto othersimilar systems. This stems from the fact that even though the softwarecan be copied onto the similar systems, the latter would not beoperational without proper authorization numbers, which need to bederived in part from their respective unique serial numbers. Inaddition, since system 10 would only become operational with a properauthorization number, which specifies a valid combination of softwareversions for use in the system, the verification requirement thusensures that the combination of software in system 10 is compatible.

It is important to note that the aforementioned algorithms in system 10,which are necessary for decrypting the option segments and forinternally deriving the electronic signatures of authorization numbers,are stored within the application code in the application module. Inorder to further deter the unauthorized copying of software in system10, these algorithms are changed from time to time for fear that theymay be learned by others from studying the code. The new algorithms canbe easily downloaded, as part of the application code, to system 10using an IC card.

It is also import ant to note that the above use of IC card 401 may beexpanded by replacing EPROM 403 and EPROM 405 with an EEPROM forreceiving and storing data from system 10. With such an IC card, theuser can now readily transport data such as accounting files from system10 to another similar system, which may be of a newer model.

It should also be noted that in the event that system 10 becomes inoperational and requires maintenance, in order to start a new system,the user only needs to physically transfer, from system 10 to the newsystem, ROM 213 and memory 250 a. As mentioned before, ROM 213 containsa unique serial number; and memory 250 contains, among other things,user programmed information in configuration module 307 and zip/zonedata in zip/zone module 305. Other data including the rate schedule dataand the application code are loaded onto the new system through ICcards. As soon as the user enters a proper authorization number, the newsystem is ready for operation.

The operation of system 10 involving display module 16 and keyboard 17will now be described. FIG. 13 illustrates display module 16 includingscreen 9 and keyboard 17 having a lay-out which includes individual keys801 and 803, and four groups of keys respectively designated 800, 825,850 and 875. Each key has a label printed on its upper left cornercorresponding to the primary function of the key, and another label maybe printed on its lower right corner corresponding to its secondaryfunction. As is apparent from FIG. 13, the secondary functions of mostof the keys are to facilitate the user's entries of alphabetic letters(A-Z) onto system 10.

Key 801 is an on/off key for switching on or off screen 9 and itsbacklighting, and for performing a software reset to initialize system10. Key 803 is a zero/hold key for zeroing or taring the weight onplatform 15 in a conventional manner.

Key group 875 enables the user to make numeric entries on to system 10,and includes an ENTER key for confirming information which has beenentered in response to a system prompt, and a CLEAR key generally forerasing an unwanted entry.

In accordance with the invention, key group 825 comprises seven “soft”selection keys F1 through F7 adjacent to screen 9, which have no fixedfunctions. As further disclosed hereinbelow, the respective functions ofthese soft keys are described on the screen and may change from time totime during an operational transaction.

Key group 850 includes miscellaneous keys 851 through 865 which are tobe described. Key group 800 includes five rows of keys respectivelydesignated 805, 810, 815, 820 and 824, each row having four keys. Keysin row 824, and key 855 in key group 850 are open keys. That is, theyare not pre-assigned any primary functions but are, as describedhereinbelow, programmable by the user to define them. Keys in rows 805,810, 815 and 820, except key 807, are known as carrier/class keys sincetheir primary functions are concerned with the selection of a carrierand class of shipment for delivering package 8. For example, the keys inrows 805 and 810, except key 807, may be concerned with shipment by theUSPS. Depression of any of these keys automatically selects shipping viathe USPS, with the specific class indicated on the depressed key. Thus,for example, depression of the first key in row 805 selects USPS firstmailing class and causes system 10 to compute the shipping cost based onthe first class rates. Similarly, depression of the second key in row805 selects third mailing class, and depression of the fourth keyselects international mail surface (Intl Srf); in row 810, depression ofthe first key selects USPS priority mail, depression of the second keyselects fourth mailing class, depression of the third key selectsexpress mail, and depression of the fourth key selects international air(Intl Air).

Depression of a key in row 815 automatically selects the UPS as thecarrier, with the various keys of this row being directed to differentclasses of shipment via the UPS. For example, key 817 is directed to theUPS Ground service. Similarly, depression of the first two keys in row820 selects the Roadway Package Service (RPS) as the carrier withvarious classes, and depression of the third key selects the FederalExpress as the carrier. The fourth key in row 820 enables the user toselect alternative carriers and/or classes from a menu that appears onscreen 9 upon depression of the key, and the rates for these carriersare accessed through soft-key selection.

In order to fully appreciate the invention, an example of arepresentative transaction is provided as follows:

FIG. 14 illustrates a particular arrangement with system 10 forexecuting the exemplary transaction. As shown in FIG. 14, system 10 isconnected to standard printer 890 via parallel interface 235 a, andconventional printer 895 for issuing UPS labels via parallel interface235 b. Printer 890 is configured to print records generated by system10, and printer 895 is configured to issue, at the request of system 10,UPS labels to be affixed onto packages to be shipped via the UPS.

Refer now to FIGS. 14 through 24. Upon the power up of system 10instructed by the aforementioned carrier service program, microprocessor201 at step 1501 of FIG. 15A causes display module 16 to display onscreen 9 a main menu, which is illustrated in FIG. 16. This main menu isthe originating point for accessing all functions and rates withinsystem 10, and may be invoked at any time by pressing the MAIN MENU key861 within key group 850.

As shown in FIG. 16, screen 9 is divided into three windows denoted1001, 1003, and 1005. Window 1001 generally indicates to the user whatoptions have been selected, or prompts the user for his/her specificresponse. In this instance, window 1001 indicates to the user to selecta class of mail or a function.

Window 1003 is relatively large in size and constitutes the main part ofthe display on screen 9. it generally provides information regarding theoutgoing package including the carrier used, the class of shipmentemployed, the weight of the package, the zip and zone of thedestination, the shipping charges, etc. In this instance, window 1003indicates that the weight of package 8 is 10 lb. 12.5 oz.

In accordance with the invention, window 1005 indicates the currentfunctions of the soft keys F1-F7, which functions may change from screento screen. To this end, window 1005 is subdivided into seven boxesdenoted 1005 a through 1005 g. Keys F1 through F7 are associated withboxes 1005 a through 1005 g, respectively, and they each assume thefunction described in the box associated therewith. With such a design,the user may depress or activate the soft key that corresponds to thedesired function. As also shown in FIG. 16, keys F1-F7 are substantiallyaligned with their associated boxes, thereby minimizing the possibilityof error in depressing the soft key for the desired function. In thisinstance, depression of key F1 enables the user to configure certainparts of system 10, depression of key F2 enables the user to accessmanifest information files 353, depression of key F3 enables the user toaccess accounting files, and depression of key F4 enables the user toaccess a rate or group of rates within system 10. Depression of any ofkeys F5-F7 will be ignored by system 10 as they are not in use at thispoint of transaction, and such non-use is indicated by theircorresponding boxes 1005 e-1005 g being absent.

It should be noted at this point that system 10 is superior to prior artpostal scales in that, among other reasons, each soft key in system 10,as described, advantageously replaces multiple dedicated keys as used inthe prior art scales, whose keyboards tend to be cluttered with keys,thus causing much confusion in their operation.

The above-described tripartite format involving windows 1001, 1003 and1005 is generally maintained from screen to screen. One would appreciatethis format as it provides a superior organization which is importantsince, like prior art postal scales generally, screen 9 of system 10 is,for aesthetic reasons, compact and relatively small.

Continuing the example, instructed by window 1001 to select a class ofmail or a function, the user in the present example depresses key 817 inrow 815. At this point, microprocessor 201 has invoked at step 1503 akey entry subroutine of FIG. 15B to sense the key input and determinewhat selection the user has made. In this instance, the user chooses toaccess the UPS ground service rates.

It should be pointed out at this juncture that the key 817 also assumesa secondary function as an “N” key (see FIG. 13). In accordance withanother aspect of the invention, by depressing key 817 alone, the usercan communicate either the selection of the UPS Ground service or theletter “N” to system 10. However, to microprocessor 201, both primaryand secondary functions associated with key 817 is represented with thesame key code. Despite such, in this instance microprocessor 201unmistakenly takes the depression of key 817 as being selection of theUPS Ground service. This stems from the f act that certain intelligencewas built in to the carrier service program, and specifically, at thispoint, microprocessor 201 expects the user to select a class of mail ora function as indicated in window 1001 of FIG. 16. Thus, it does notmake sense if microprocessor 201 treats the key code received at step1503 as being an entry of “N”. In this respect, system 10 is, again,superior to prior art postal scales in that system 10 does not requiredepression of an additional key such as a shift or control key toexecute the secondary functions. Moreover, with the built-inintelligence, microprocessor 201 may cause speaker circuitry 243 to beepat the user with a particular tone whenever he/she depresses a key whichis unresponsive or not expected by microprocessor 201. Thus,advantageously, the operation of system 10 is much simpler and moreconducive to an accurate determination of shipping costs than the priorart scales.

The key entry subroutine of FIG. 15B will now be described. Instructedby the subroutine, microprocessor 201 periodically scans keyboard 17 fordepression of any key or keys, as indicated at step 1503 a. Upon sensingdepression of a key or keys, microprocessor 201 decodes the key input atstep 1503 b. It then determines at step 1503 c whether the input issensible. If not, microprocessor 201 causes speaker circuitry 243 togenerate at step 1503 d the distinctive beep indicating an erroneousinput, and thence returns to step 1503 a. Otherwise, if the input issensible, microprocessor 201 causes speaker circuitry 243 to generate atstep 1503 e a distinctive click. At step 1503 f, microprocessor 201determines what selection the user has made, and thence returns to themain routine of FIG. 15A.

Refer back to FIG. 15A. Continuing the example, after determining thatthe user has selected the UPS Ground service, microprocessor 201responsively causes display module 16 to display at step 1505 a secondscreen as illustrated in FIG. 17. Window 1001 of FIG. 17 indicates onits left side the “UPS Grnd” selection previously entered by the user,and indicates on its right side to the user to select a class associatedwith the UPS Ground service. The class choices are Ground Commercial(Grnd Com) associated with key F1, Ground Residential (Grnd Res)associated with key F2, GroundTrac Commercial (Gtrac Com) associatedwith key F3, Groundrac Residential (Gtrac Res) associated with key F4,Ground Canada (Grnd Can) associated with key F5, Hundredweight Ground(CWTGD) associated with key F6, and “-more-” associated with key F7.Depression of the last key causes screen 9 to display additional classessuch as Call Tag in one or more boxes of 1005 a-g.

In this example, the user depresses key F1 to select the GroundCommercial class. Having invoked the key entry subroutine and determinedthe user's selection at step 1507, microprocessor 201 responsivelycauses display module 16 to display at step 1509 a third screen asillustrated in FIG. 18. Window 1001 of FIG. 18 again on its left sideindicates the previous selections made by the user, and on its rightside prompts the user for a zip code of the destination of package 8. Inthis instance, the user illustratively enters “12345” as the zip code bydepressing the corresponding numeric keys, followed by the ENTER keywithin key group 875. After determining the zip code entered by the userat step 1511, microprocessor 201 looks up the zone number associatedwith that zip code from a table within zip/zone module 305, as indicatedat step 1513. In this instance, the zone number in question is “2”. Withthe information just gathered, microprocessor 201 looks up at step 1517the shipping cost from a table within the rate module, which is $3.86 inthis example. Microprocessor 201 then causes display module 16 todisplay at step 1519 a fourth screen as illustrated in FIG. 19,indicating the above zone number and shipping cost.

Window 1005 of FIG. 19 illustrates a number of additional, specialservices including insurance (Ins) associated with key F1, CODassociated with key F2, oversize (Ovs) associated with key F3, specialcharges (Spc) associated with key F4, parcel insurance plan (PIP)associated with key F5, detailed services associated with key F6, and“-more-” associated with key F7. Depression of key F6 will bringdetailed service information into the left portion of window 1003. Theinformation may include the fees associated with services that have beenselected for the current transaction, and will remain in window 1003until the user presses key F6 again.

In order to more fully appreciate the invention, FIG. 20 is provided tomore realistically depict screen 9 corresponding to FIG. 19. As shown inFIG. 20, subwindow 2000 encloses the weight information. Each box withinwindow 1005 is displayed in reverse video. That is, each box, except thewording therein, is entirely darkened. In this particular embodiment,the boxes displayed in reverse video represent valid choices for theuser to select.

Window 1001 of FIGS. 19 and 20 indicates to the user to select a specialservice or press the record key within key group 850. Mindful of such aninstruction, the user illustratively depresses key F1 for insurance 1005a as the special service. Upon detection of the depressed key at step1521, microprocessor 201 responsively prompts at step 1523 for aninsurance amount as shown in window 1001 of FIG. 21. The user in thisinstance enters $200 as the insurance amount. Had the user entered anamount outside the insurance range, say $90, microprocessor 201 wouldcause display module 16 to display a message screen as illustrated inFIG. 22. In general, the message screen includes a drop-down “MessageCenter” subwindow notifying the user of an erroneous entry or a problem,and providing information to the user to help correct the problem. Asshown in FIG. 22, message center subwindow 1002 in this instanceindicates that the proper insurance range should be between $100.01 and$4,000,000.00. The F4 key would enable the user to continue and go backto the screen of FIG. 21 to enter a proper insurance amount.

Continuing the example, after determining at step 1525 the insuranceamount entered (which is $200 in this instance), microprocessor 201 atstep 1527 looks up a table within the rate module for the insurance feeand, at step 1529, updates the screen to show a new total shipping costof $4.16 as in FIG. 23.

In addition, microprocessor 201 at step 1531 causes box 1005 a(Insurance) and box 1005 e (PIP) of FIG. 23 to be displayed in normalvideo. That is, only the wording within the box is darkened and theremaining part thereof being blank. A closer look at box 1005 e revealsthat, unlike box 1005 a, box 1005 e is not enclosed by a rectangularperimeter.

In this illustrative embodiment, a box displayed in normal video with aperimeter indicates to the user that the selection described in the boxhas been made, but may be deselected to undo the selection, which is thecase of “Insurance” box 1005 a here. In other words, the user may atthis point depress key F1 again if he/she decides to undo the insuranceselection. On the other hand, a box displayed in normal video without aperimeter indicates to the user that the selection described in the boxis not valid, which is the case of “PIP” box 1005 e here. Since the userhas selected an insurance and the parcel insurance plan is mutuallyexclusive of the insurance selection, the “PIP” selection is no longervalid.

As suggested by window 1001 of FIG. 23 to select a special service orpress record, the user at this point depress RECORD key 856 within keygroup 850. Upon detection of the depressed key at step 1533,microprocessor 201 responsively prompts for an entry of an account namerepresentative of an account for which the current transaction isexecuted. At the same time, the last, active account name is displayedon the prompt line in window 1001, as indicated at step 1535. The usermay depress the ENTER key to select that last account name, or may entera new name which will then become the new, active account name.Alternatively, the user may assign the current transaction to an accountselected among a displayed list of account names stored in configurationmodule 307 by depressing ACCOUNT key 860. Upon depression of the key,drop-down subwindow 1004 revealing a list of account names appears onthe left side of window 1003, as illustrated in FIG. 24. Also revealedin subwindow 1004 are up-arrow 1004 a and downarrow 1004b indicatingthat the user may scroll up and down the list for additional accountnames using keys 863 and 864, respectively. It should be pointed outthat the list in subwindow 1004 has been sorted in an alphanumeric orderto facilitate locating of a particular account name. An account namedisplayed in reverse video in the subwindow may be selected by pressingthe ENTER key.

After accepting the account entry, microprocessor 201 at step 1537prompts for an invoice number in window 1001, again revealing the last,active invoice number on the prompt line. The user may adopt the lastnumber by depressing the ENTER key or enter a new number which willbecome the new, active invoice number. After obtaining the invoicenumber, microprocessor 201 goes through a similar process to elicit fromthe user a tracking number, as indicated at step 1539. After obtainingthe tracking number, microprocessor 201 at step 1541 causes printer 890to print a record pertaining to the current transaction containing theaccount name, the invoice number, the shipping cost, etc. for billingpurposes. Such a record is also stored and included in one of theaccounting information files 351 for future reference. Thereafter,microprocessor 201 at step 1543 causes printer 895 to generate, forpackage 8, a UPS label indicative of a shipper number, and an invoicenumber particular to package 8.

After the UPS label has been generated, the above exemplary transactioncomes to an end. The program returns to step 1509, displaying a screenidentical to FIG. 18, with the UPS class information intact, except thatbecause platform 15 has been cleared for the next outgoing package, theweight displayed would be 0 lb and 0 oz. The user at this point may alsodepress MAIN MENU key 861 within key group 850 to return to a screenvirtually identical to FIG. 16 (with 0 lb and 0 oz showing) to selectanother function or class of service.

Referring back to FIG. 13, the functions of the remaining keys withinkey group 850, and key 807 will now be described. Key 851 enables theuser to select an alternative zip code or zone destination for thecurrently active class and service. When this key is depressed, thecurrent zip and zone information will be erased. System 10 will promptfor a zip code or zone entry on the prompt line. After the informationis entered, system 10 will recalculate the fee for the currently activeclass based on the new zone.

Key 852 enables the user to configure the weighing unit, weighingmethod, and weighing source. The default weighing unit used in system 10is British. The default weighing source is scale 11. The defaultweighing method is a conventional method where a package is weighed froma zero basis. Alternatively system 10 may be configured to implement adifferential weighing method as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,001,648issued Mar. 19, 1991 to Baker, which is hereby incorporated byreference. In accordance with the differential weighing method, acollection of packages are placed on platform 15, and system 10registers their collective weight. When a package is removed from thecollection and off platform 15, system 10 will determine the differencebetween the original, collective weight and the new, collective weightwith the package removed. The shipping cost for the package in questionis calculated based on the differential weight, and the new weightbecomes the basis for the next calculation.

Key 853 enables the user to void a record for a particular carrier byreferencing the invoice number, custom number, account, etc. Key 854enables the user to perform a multiple shipment operation whereinmultiple packages may be assigned a common invoice. Key 857 enables theuser to set postage determined by system 10 on a connected postage meterand run through the meter an outgoing letter to be stamped with thatpostage. The accounting information regarding the stamped letter ismaintained in system 10. On the other hand, key 858 enables the user toset postage determined by system 10 on the connected postage meter anddispense from the meter a tape stamped with that postage. This tape isto be affixed onto an outgoing package, and system 10 retains theappropriate accounting information.

Key 859 enables the user to process a batch of mail which, for example,calls for the same postage on the connected postage meter. Takingadvantage of its multitasking operating system, system 10 provides asoft-key multitasking option under key 859 to further enable a user toperform a different task with system 10 while it is monitoring the meteractivity in the background. Thus, for example, after the user depresseskey 859 and selects the multitasking option, the user can then set theconnected meter to process a batch of letters to be stamped withparticular postage. While the letters are being stamped by the meter,the user can operate system 10 to perform other independent tasks suchas determining the UPS shipping cost for package 8. After all theletters are processed, the multitasking operation is concluded, and theuser can then store the accounting information regarding the stampedletters in the system.

Key 862 enables the user to return system 10 to the previous screen orlevel. When this key is depressed, the response entered at the currentlevel will be aborted and the response entered on the previous levelwill be displayed, along with the previous screen. Key 863 enables theuser to scroll up a list displayed in window 1003 for selection of, forexample, particular records for printing. Key 864 enables the user toscroll down and perform the inverse function to key 863.

DEFINE MACROS Key 865 enables the user to define macro keys or, in otherwords, program one or more of the open keys to which, as mentionedbefore, no primary functions have been assigned. The purpose of key 865is to allow the user to customize the open keys for particular primaryfunctions which may often be required, but which are currently notavailable on keyboard 17. The macro programming calls for depression ofkey 865, followed by depression of a selected open key as the macro key.The programming starts with the main menu screen of FIG. 16, and thesequence of key entries from thereon are recorded until the depressionof key 865 a second time. The recorded key entries are then assigned tothe macro key as its functional steps to be performed when that key isdepressed.

Thus, for example, with key 865 in conjunction with the access ratesfunction to be described, the user is able to program a macro key foraccessing a rate or group of rates in a key stroke. In the programmingof such a macro key, the user may go through a sequence of screens and,during that process, deselect or opt out any undesired options appearingon each screen to filter out unwanted information. Depression of themacro key, as programmed, will now obviate the deselection processpreviously gone through. Thus, the user can effectively set up filterswhereby the user is able to quickly access a group of rates with certaincommonalities from an extensive data base. These commonalities mayinclude the type of mail, destination, delivery time and carrier. Thefilters may also be made so limiting that the macro programming, ineffect, assigns a new, single rate from a rate tree to a macro key.

BEST WAY Key 807 in row 805 is a special key preprogrammed to be eitheras a single rate key for selecting the lowest rate in one of sixcategories to be described, or as a key for accessing a group of ratesin a selected category sorted from the lowest rate to facilitate rateshopping. As further discussed hereinbelow, these six categories aredesignated “Ground Commercial”, “Ground Residential”, “Second Day”,“Next Day”, “Letter”, and “Custom” and may each be selected bydepressing the corresponding soft keys after key 807 is depressed. Thus,with the BEST WAY key, the user may access different categories ofsorted rates which are conveniently grouped according to, for example,the delivery time (Second Day and Next Day) or other criteria imposed bythe user (Custom). In fact, the user may customize any of the sixcategories by executing the access rates function of system 10, whichwill now be described.

The access rates function in system 10 enables a user to alternativelyaccess the rate schedules. This function may also be utilized inconjunction with the above DEFINE MACROS key to record a sequence of keyentries and to assign the sequence to an open key. To initiate theaccess rates function, the user may depress key F4 at the main menu ofFIG. 16. Upon depression of that key, system 10 returns with a screen asdepicted in FIG. 25 where “Destination” (Dest), “Type of Mail”,“Delivery Service”, and “Carrier” options are displayed in window 1005for selection.

By way of example, but not limitation, the user in this instanceselected the Destination option by depressing key F1. In response,system 10 displays a screen as depicted in FIG. 26 where “48 States”,“Puerto Rico”, “Canada”, “Alaska” and “Others” options for destinationare displayed in window 1005. These options are each displayed in normalvideo within an enclosed box (shown in a regular typeface in FIG. 26),similar to box 1005 a of FIG. 21, indicating that all the options havebeen selected by default. It is up to the user to deselect or filter outunwanted options by depressing the corresponding function keys. In thisexample, the user depresses keys F2, F4 and F5 to deselect therespective Puerto Rico, Alaska and Others options. The resulting screenis shown in FIG. 27 where each of the three deselected options is nowdisplayed in reverse video (shown in a bold typeface in FIG. 27). Atthis point, through the above deselection, the user in effect hasselected to access all the rates pertaining to the 48 States and Canadaonly.

Continuing the example, the user in this instance depresses PREVIOUSMENU key 862 to return to the menu of FIG. 25. At the menu, the userdepresses key F4 corresponding to the Carrier option to further limitthe number of rates to be accessed to those pertaining to particularcarriers. In response, system 10 displays a screen at which the userthen deselects the “USPS”, “Federal Express”, “DHL”, “Airborne” (Abn),and “-more-” carrier options by depressing the corresponding soft keys.The resulting screen is depicted in FIG. 28. By doing so, the user ineffect has selected the “UPS” and “RPS” as the desired carrier options.Again, the user returns to the menu of FIG. 25 by depressing thePREVIOUS MENU key, and may select another category such as “Type ofMail” for further limiting the number of rates to be accessed.

In any event, the user at this point has decided to conclude the abovedeselection process and depresses key F5 to select the “Display List”option at the menu of FIG. 25. In response, system 10 returns with ascreen as depicted in FIG. 29, wherein subwindow 2900 reveals theresulting list of rates which the user desires to access after filteringout the unwanted rates. As shown in FIG. 29, the first rate appearing insubwindow 2900 is highlighted in reverse video. The user at this pointmay depress the scroll keys to scroll up or down the list. The user mayalso limit the list further by removing an highlighted rate using the“Remove Rate” soft key option.

After the user is satisfied with the final list, he/she may select the“Assign Best Way” option of FIG. 29, whereby the list will be assignedto one of the aforementioned categories under the Best Way key function.This assignment is accomplished by way of soft key selection at a screenas depicted in FIG. 30. Alternatively, the user may select the “GetPrice” option of FIG. 29. If that is the case, system 10 would bring theindividual rates of the final list down to window 1005 for soft keyselection, as illustrated in FIG. 31. The user may then select thedesired rate. The special services, if any, associated with the selectedrate will thereafter appear for soft key selection. That is, system 10will process the selected rate as if it were selected by depressing thecorresponding hard key from keyboard 17.

The foregoing merely illustrates the principles of the invention. Itwill thus be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able todevise numerous systems and methods which, although not explicitly shownor described herein, embody the principles of the invention and are thuswithin the spirit and scope of the invention.

For example, in system 10 it may be desirable to increase the capacityof nonvolatile SRAM 250 c to include a customer database. Such adatabase may contain name and address information of individualcustomers to whom packages are frequently addressed. With this customerdatabase, system 10 can be configured to print, on a connected printer,labels with the customer name and address information, which includemailing labels, UPS COD labels, etc.

In addition, for any reason, it may be more desirable to have a screensmaller than screen 9 in system 10 and, as a result, it is no longerfeasible to use the above windows and/or subwindows to display detailedinformation to help user make selections at a selection screen. It willbe appreciated that one will display such detailed information on analternate screen. Thus, in the middle of a transaction, one may accessthe alternate screen from the selection screen by depressing a specialkey. After obtaining the necessary information from the alternatescreen, by again depressing the special key, one may toggle back to theselection screen to continue the transaction.

Moreover, although system 10 has been disclosed to employ keyboard 17for the user to interact with the system, it may be more desirable touse, instead, another device for such interaction, which may be standardbarcode scanner 170, voice recognition device 175 or personal computer178 as shown in FIG. 32. One of these devices is connected to keyboardinterface 230 through RS-232 interface 233 d. As disclosed before,microprocessor 201 fetches from keyboard interface 230 the keycodescorresponding to the depressed keys on keyboard 17. The non-keyboarddevices in question are programmed to emulate the effect of key strokeson keyboard 17 by transmitting the corresponding keycodes to keyboardinterface 230, thereby eliminating the need of a keyboard to input suchkeycodes. For instance, barcode scanner 170 is configured to scan a setof barcodes each corresponding to a different keycode. That is, insteadof pressing a key on keyboard 17 to generate a particular keycode tokeyboard interface 230, with the arrangement of FIG. 23, scanner 170 iscapable of generating the same keycode to interface 230 by scanning thecorresponding barcode. Similarly, in a conventional manner, voicerecognition device 175 is configured to generate the keycodes byrecognizing the voice of the user when reading off the labels of thecorresponding keys; and personal computer 178 is configured to downloadfrom its memory to keyboard interface 230 a sequence of data bytesidentical to the desired keycodes, thereby automating the operation ofsystem 10.

Furthermore, in one of the disclosed embodiments, data is transportedfrom system 10 to a similar system using an IC card. It may also bedesirable to download data such as accounting files from system 10through a communications network to a remote computer which, forexample, handles the billing. To this end, FIG. 33 illustrates anexemplary arrangement where personal computer 187 of conventional designis configured to communicate with system 10 via standard modem 183. Inthis particular arrangement, computer 187 is equipped with commercialcommunication software such as PROCOMM PLUS® for Windows manufacturedand marketed by Datastorm Technologies, Inc. On the other hand, system10 is equipped with Greenleaf COM++® communication software, version1.0, manufactured and marketed by Greenleaf Software, Inc., and isconfigured to communicate via modem 185 which is compatible with modem183. With this arrangement, system 10 is capable of transferring itsaccounting files to computer 187 over communications network 189 usingsuch a standard protocol as KERMIT for example. Moreover, with thisarrangement, computer 187 can be used, in lieu of the IC cards, todownload through communications network 189 data such as the rateschedule data and the zip/zone data, and the carrier service applicationprogram to system 10 for updating the system.

Finally, the present invention has been described and disclosed in aform in which the various system functions are performed by discretefunctional blocks. However, any one or more of these functions couldequally well be performed by one or more appropriately programmedmicroprocessors, microcoded chips, etc.

We claim:
 1. In an electronic scale system having a microprocessor forcontrolling operation of a scale, for computing shipping charges forpackages weighted by said scale, and for controlling the operation of apostage meter connected to said scale, the improvement comprising, amultitask control program for concurrently controlling the operation ofsaid postage meter to print postage and for allowing concurrentindependent operation of said scale and said microprocessor forcomputing shipping charges.
 2. A method for operating an electronicscale system connected to a postage meter, comprising performingmultitask programs in a microprocessor, said multitask programsproviding concurrent tasks of controlling operation of said postagemeter to print postage and controlling operation of said electronicscale to compute shipping charges for packages weighed by said scale.